Lewis Hamilton to replace Michael Schumacher at Mercedes for 2013

In a move which has taken place amongst immense speculation in the past few weeks, Mercedes have finally confirmed that Lewis Hamilton will be joining the squad in 2013.

Hamilton, being the key to the 2013 driver market, has been under huge pressure to announce his future for some time now. It is believed that his move to Mercedes will allow him and his management team to enhance and market the Hamilton brand around the world.

This new 3-year deal will partner Lewis with his former karting teammate Nico Rosberg. The two shared a podium at the 2008 Australian Grand Prix for the first time since their childhood racing days.

Hamilton today said:

"It is now time for me to take on a fresh challenge and I am very excited to begin
a new chapter racing for the Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team. Mercedes-Benz
has such an incredible heritage in motorsport, along with a passion for winning which
I share.
Together, we can grow and rise to this new challenge. I believe that I can help steer
the Silver Arrows to the top and achieve our joint ambitions of winning the world
championships."

Team principal Ross Brawn was extremely cagey when he talked about Michael Schumacher’s future:

"On behalf of Mercedes AMG Petronas, I would first of all like to thank Michael
Schumacher for the important contribution he has made to the growth of our team
over the past three seasons.
His energy and commitment have never wavered, even when results have not matched
our own expectations, and we are determined to finish the 2012 season together on
a high. As always, it has been a pleasure to work with Michael."

Mercedes have also announced that former world champion Niki Lauda will join the team as a non-executive chairman on the board of directors.